Elephanta Island (Beyond the Caves) Mumbai
About
Beyond the famous caves, Elephanta Island (Gharapuri) offers a Koli fishing village, a colonial-era cannon hill, and peaceful hiking trails with views of Mumbai's skyline across the harbor.
Basic Information
Timings
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee
Ferry: ₹200-250 round trip
Best Time to Visit
October to March
Place Type
Historical
How to Reach
Ferry from Gateway of India (1 hour)
Nearby Metro Stations
Metro stations within 5 km of Elephanta Island (Beyond the Caves)
No metro stations found within 5 km.
Nearby Local Train Stations
Local train stations within 3 km of Elephanta Island (Beyond the Caves)
No local train stations found within 3 km.
History
Originally called Gharapuri (City of Caves), the Portuguese renamed it Elephanta after a large stone elephant they found. The island has been inhabited for centuries by the Koli community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Opening Hours
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee
Ferry: ₹200-250 round trip
Type
Historical
Best Time to Visit
October to March
How to Reach
Best reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw
The original stone elephant is now in the Bhau Daji Lad Museum
The island was used as a target practice location by the Portuguese
The Koli village on the island has been there for centuries
Explore beyond the caves - the village and hilltop offer great views
Try the local food at island stalls
The toy train from the jetty to the caves is a fun ride
Nearby Attractions
Other popular places to visit near Elephanta Island (Beyond the Caves)
Elephanta Caves
Historical
Elephanta Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Heritage
Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu)
Landmark
Trombay & Eastern Waterfront Heritage
Heritage
Atal Setu (Mumbai Trans Harbour Link)
Landmark
Atal Setu (Mumbai Trans Harbour Link)
Experience
Bhaucha Dhakka (Ferry Wharf)
Experience
IMAX Dome Theatre, Wadala
Entertainment
Sewri Fort
Historical
Sewri Fort
Historical